Bishop Mtumbuka Reminds MDF to Uphold Constitution

Diocesan Bishop Matthew Mtumbuka of the Karonga Diocese has urged the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) officers to perform their duties in accordance with the country’s constitution.

Speaking during the consecration of Bishop Yohane Suzgo Nyirenda in Mzuzu on Saturday, Mtumbuka emphasized that Malawians are governed by a civilized legal framework, not a military junta.

“Malawi operates under a democratic framework, not military rule. Any attempts to seize land from the poor are unacceptable and must cease,” Bishop Mtumbuka said.

The Bishop cited recent incidents, including the harassment of people in Kasasile, Nkhata-Bay district, and the victimization of two immigration officials, which he described as “barbaric and unacceptable,” reminded the MDF that they must operate within the bounds of the constitution.

“If you have power, go to Goma in the DR Congo and you won’t come home alive, so stop playing with the lives of poor people. You, even President Dr Lazarus Chakwera is not above the constitution,” added the Bishop.

On another serious note, Bishop Mtumbuka cautioned President Lazarus Chakwera against taking Transport Minister Jacob Hara’s Facebook posts at face value, particularly regarding the progress on the Mzuzu-Karonga-Chiweta Road.

“Mr. President, don’t take seriously what your Minister of Roads posts on Facebook,” Mtumbuka said, adding that such posts could damage the President’s credibility.

He also urged the Malawi Electoral Commission to ensure maximum transparency in the forthcoming general elections, citing concerns over the Smartmatic electoral management system that has raised doubts among many Malawians.

There has been no immediate official statement from either the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) or Minister of Roads and Infrastructure Development, Jacob Hara, regarding the Catholic Bishop’s remarks.